When is it Time to Consider Hospice Care?

There are general guidelines and common signs or symptoms that indicate a person may be in need of hospice care. These guidelines are not specific to any diagnosis, but they are good indicators of declining health that may be occurring with someone you know.

For information or to arrange a hospice consultation call Ambercare at 1-877-861-0060.

Indicators

Decision to discontinue treatment(s) for a terminal illness or a continued decline in condition despite aggressive treatment or curative medications

Unexplained progressive weight loss

Loss of appetite

Increased or unmanaged pain or other symptoms such as, constipation, anxiety, or shortness of breath

Increased confusion or loss in cognitive functions

Incontinence of bowel and bladder

Skin breakdown including compromised skin and pressure ulcers

Increased difficulty in verbal communications

Continued decline in activities of daily living such as: needing assistance with bathing or dressing, feeding, function and mobility and assistance with transfers

Prior to hospice admission a registered nurse must evaluate to ensure a patient qualifies for hospice based on the medicare-mandated criteria